A devastating fire at a multi-storied building housing the Lemon Green Restaurant in Malviya Nagar, New Delhi, has claimed 21 lives, including 17 foreign nationals, according to Delhi Police. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday morning, has triggered a large-scale rescue operation and widespread grief across the country. Officials confirmed that the victims include people from Liberia, Nigeria, Mozambique and Bangladesh.

Authorities said that 47 people were rescued from the building during the operation, while 21 were declared dead. Of the survivors, 26 are currently undergoing treatment at various hospitals in Delhi. Sub-Divisional Magistrate (South Delhi) Jitender Kumar informed that the search and rescue operation was completed by 12:12 p.m., marking the end of the initial emergency response phase.

Medical officials at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi reported that 13 injured individuals were brought to the hospital, including cases involving trauma from people who reportedly jumped from heights to escape the fire. The AIIMS Trauma Centre also confirmed that 10 Delhi Police personnel were among those admitted after participating in early rescue efforts inside the burning structure.

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Officials further stated that three bodies have been shifted to the Burns and Plastic Surgery Department for post-mortem procedures. The extent of injuries and fatalities has raised concerns about safety standards and emergency preparedness in densely populated commercial buildings in the capital. Investigations are expected to focus on the cause of the fire and possible lapses in fire safety compliance.

The tragedy has drawn reactions from top political leaders across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased, while expressing condolences to those affected. Union Home Minister Amit Shah described the incident as deeply distressing and assured that the injured are receiving the best possible medical care.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi called the incident “extremely heartbreaking” and urged Congress workers to assist in relief efforts. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also expressed grief, noting that repeated fire incidents in the city are a matter of serious concern. As rescue operations conclude, attention is now shifting toward accountability and measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.

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